Parkes experienced a brief but spectacular boom during the gold rush before it matured as the centre of a rich agricultural district. Much of its fortune goes back to visits in 1873 & 1893 by the Premier of NSW at the time, Sir Henry Parkes. The town (once Bushman's) was re-named to Parkes in his honour and the main street was named after his wife Clarinda. Other streets are named after his sons.
It was the influence of Sir Henry Parkes that routed the main western railway line through Parkes.
Being situated at the cross roads of the Newell Highway, connecting Melbourne and Brisbane and the transcontinental railway linking the east coast to Adelaide, Perth and Darwin, Parkes is one of hte most significant locations in the future of transport and logistics in Australia.
It is a thriving community situated in almost the geographical centre of New South Wales.
Nowdays it is also famous as the home of ‘the dish’ - the Parkes Radio Telescope and the much-loved Parkes Elvis Festival held the 2nd weekend of January each year.
Annually 1st Weekend in September - Trundle Showground - bush music, bush stalls & a fiercely contested bush cooking competition making it a great family day out.
PARKES PICNIC RACES:
Held annually at the Parkes Showground - June Long Weekend - Fashions, fun and festivities and loads of entertainment,
2nd weekend in January annually - various locations/venues around Parkes - more than 9,000 visitors and fans visit Parkes to join in the festivities and fun over the five day program.